FREE HIKE 25km | North Downs Way from Guildford to Dorking

The hike begins at Guildford Station, leading through Shalford Park and into the tranquil Chantry Woods. The trail starts gently, with the scent of pine in the air as you leave the town behind and step into peaceful woodland.

A steady climb takes you to St Martha’s Hill, crowned by its historic church and spectacular views over the North Downs and Tillingbourne Valley. This iconic viewpoint rewards your effort with sweeping countryside vistas.

The trail then descends across Albury Downs and climbs again toward Newlands Corner, a popular beauty spot offering panoramic views, a café, toilets, and picnic areas. This is an ideal place to take a break.

Continuing on, the path winds into the shaded serenity of West Hanger and Netley Park. These quieter stretches offer a rich woodland experience, alive with birdsong, wildlife, and seasonal wildflowers.

The route then emerges onto Ranmore Common, where you’ll pass the peaceful St Barnabas Church. From here, you'll follow the ridgeline beside the expansive Denbies Vineyard, the largest in England. This scenic stretch offers one last sweeping view before your descent into Dorking.

The hike concludes near Dorking Station, with easy access to trains, shops, pub and refreshments, perfect for a optional celebratory snack or drink!

🌟 HIGHLIGHTS:

• Climb to St Martha’s Hill for panoramic views
• Rest stop at scenic Newlands Corner
• Tranquil woodlands of West Hanger and Netley Park
• Open countryside across Ranmore Common
• Walk beside Denbies Vineyard

🚻 TOILETS:

• Available at Newlands Visitor Centre

📍 MEETING POINT AND OUTBOUND TRAINS:

• 08:15 — Meet under the clock at London Waterloo Station
• 08:30 — Head to platform and board train
• 08:45 — Train departs London Waterloo
• 09:23 — Arrives at Guildford (GLD) - (38 minutes direct)

💷 TRAIN COSTS (with Network Railcard)

• ➡️ Outbound:
• Buy a single from London to Guildford (GLD) — £11.75
• ⬅️ Return (to London):
• Buy a single from Dorking (Main) to London Terminals — £7.65
• ⬅️ Return (to Guildford):
• Buy a single from Dorking (Deepdene) to Guildford (GLD) — £5.70

🚶WALK STARTS:

• 09:30 — From the main entrance of Guildford Station

🏁 WALK FINISHES:

• Approximately 17:30 to 18:00 at Dorking Main Train Station

🚂 RETURN TRAINS:

• 18:22 — Dorking (Deepdene) → Guildford (GLD), arrives 18:41
• 18:32 — Dorking (Main) → London Waterloo, arrives 19:25
• 18:52 — Dorking (Deepdene) → Guildford (GLD), arrives 19:15

⚠️ TERRAIN, CONDITIONS AND DIFFICULTY:

• Distance: ~25 km (16 miles)
• Walking Time: ~6.5 to 7 hours
• Total Duration: ~7.5 to 8 hours (including breaks)
• Ascent: 451 m | Descent: 439 m
• Grade: MODERATE/STRENUOUS (due to distance and hills), Surface: Woodland trails, chalk, gravel paths, sandy ridgelines, and open downs.
• Pace: Steady and moderate (4.5–5 km/h) – faster than a stroll, but relaxed enough for conversation and enjoyment of the surroundings.

🥪 LUNCH:

• Bring a packed lunch and snacks.

🎒WHAT TO BRING:

• Packed lunch and snacks
• Water (at least 2L)
• Sturdy hiking boots
• Layers and waterproof clothing
• Sun protection
• Medication and basic first aid (Compeed for blisters)
• Optional walking poles
• Fully charged phone
• Camera for some pictures

📞CONTACT:

• Message the event host directly via Meetup with any questions.

✅ Final Acknowledgement
By joining this event, you confirm that you have read, understood, and accepted the Outdoor Group Policy & Disclaimer outlined on the About page. You participate at your own risk, and your safety remains your personal responsibility. Neither the host nor the group accepts any liability for injury, loss, or damage incurred during the activity.